Brassica oleracea
ornamental cabbage
This is the wild cabbage plant from which many types of vegetable have been bred - cabbage, sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, kohlrabi and more. It is a short-lived perennial which looks very similar to other wild brassicas, with evergreen leaves and yellow flowers. It is extremely variable but the lower leaves are large and fleshy, on stalks, often with several leaflets and a wavy or toothed edge, whilst the upper leaves are small, stalkless and narrow. The flowers become long green pods containing dark brown seeds. All parts are edible when young
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow | Green | ||
| Autumn | Yellow | Green | Green | |
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Spreading branched, Columnar upright
- Genus
Brassicas can be annual, biennial or perennial plants, most are upright with alternate, often glaucous leaves, long taproots and clusters of cross-shaped, yellow or white flowers. The genus includes a number of species bred to produce food crops, such as cabbages, turnips, mustards and oilseed rape, as well as others grown for their ornamental value
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- W coastal Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow outdoors in fertile but firm, soil that isn't too acidic. This is the wild type of many of our cabbage-type vegetables and it is likely to be this, if you let any of your brassica vegetables run to seed. It is attractive to butterflies and pollen beetles, but take care as it can harbour pests and diseases which on your food crops will be unwelcome.
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to attack by caterpillars when eggs laid by butterflies, hatch and feed. It is very popular food for pigeons and snails, although once plants are established, this damage isn't usually severe. Also, flea beetle can prevent seedlings from thriving.
Diseases
May be susceptible to brassica downy mildew and brassica white blister
Get involved
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